Types of ladders
Step Ladder
Step ladders are the most commonly used type of ladder. They have a fixed height and have an A-frame shape, making them self-supporting. Step ladders can have telescoping features to adjust the maximum height, there are also features such as the platform ladder that gives the user a platform to stand on at the last step increasing reach. Step ladders typically reach 4ft. to 10ft.
Extension Ladder
Extension ladders are a great choice for projects that require you to reach substantial heights. An example of this would be working on the outside of a house, or reaching a fixture in a house with a tall ceiling. They extend to different heights and require the user to lean it against a wall. Most extension ladders reach 20ft. to 32ft.
Multi-position Ladder
Multi-position ladders are great for applications where the terrain is not flat. If you had to work on something but a set of stairs created a hazard for a step ladder, a multi-position would be ideal in this case. The beauty of multi-position ladders is you can adjust the legs to different heights relative to the other. Another great feature of this ladder is you can turn it into an extension ladder making it more versatile. Certain models allow you to serve them as a scaffold or workhorse. Multi-position ladders have a reach from 10ft. to 32ft.
Tilt and Roll Ladder
Tilt and Roll Ladders are found in commercial and industrial settings. These are a type of work platform where you can stand on the last step and have more space than the other steps. These ladders can take more load than a step ladder making them great for commercial and industrial uses. This type of ladders typically are caged at the top to help prevent accidents but the user should always use safe practices. To move this ladder the name speaks for itself, tilt and roll the ladder.
Ladder Materials
Aluminum
Aluminum ladders are lighter than fiberglass ladders making it great for transportation. They are also great for outdoor conditions. Aluminum ladders are not advised to use when doing electrical work since the ladder aluminum is a good conductor. They can also face structural damage due to heat.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass ladders are safe and durable. These ladders are a great choice for doing electrical work since they are a poor conductor. They also are more heat tolerant than aluminum ladders.
Wood
Wooden ladders were more common before the introduction of aluminum and fiberglass ladders. They are nonconductive but are prone to rotting because of their wooden material. They can also absorb moisture, splinter, and warp. It is safer to use an aluminum or fiberglass ladder.
Ladder Ratings
According to the ANSI – ASC 14.2-2017 there are 5 types of ratings, below is a chart.
American National Standard for Ladders
| Duty Rating | Ladder Type | Working Load (pounds) |
|---|---|---|
| Special Duty | IAA | 375 |
| Extra Heavy-Duty | IA | 300 |
| Heavy-Duty | I | 250 |
| Medium-Duty | II | 225 |
| Light-Duty | III | 200 |
Portable Metal, Safety Requirements
Safety
In America, according to the CDC, about 300 people a year die, and more than 500,000 people are injured to ladder-related injuries. By practicing ladder safety you can lower your chances of falling into these statistics. Firstly understand your application, ask yourself what type of ladder would be the safest for application.
Do not overextend your reach while on a ladder, doing so can lead you to fall and cause injury or death. Store your ladders away from the elements, and always inspect them before use. Never stand on top or on the last two rungs of a step ladder, if you do you can lose balance very easily and fall.
Do not walk a ladder while standing on it. Always refer to your region’s safety regulations for more information. You can read more about ladder safety through OSHA’s Stairways and Ladders section.